In 2018, there were updates to the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) requirements for landlords, which included the introduction of a minimum energy rating of ‘E’ or above for new tenancies. However, this rule now applies to all tenancies, not just new ones.
Furthermore, in 2021, additional changes were announced regarding the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES), which will impact landlords and rental properties starting from 2028.
This article serves as a recap of these changes, providing comprehensive details on the latest updates regarding EPCs. It covers important information regarding your legal responsibilities as a landlord and the implications if your property does not have an EPC.
It is crucial for landlords to stay informed about these regulations to ensure compliance and to maintain energy efficiency standards in their rental properties.
What are the current EPC requirements?
Since October 2008, it has been a requirement for rental properties in England and Wales to have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). This certificate provides information about the energy efficiency of the property.
On April 1st, 2018, the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) came into effect. These standards mandate that all properties being let or sold in England and Wales must have a minimum EPC rating of ‘E’ or higher.
Importantly, starting from April 1st, 2020, the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards apply to all existing tenancies, not just new ones or renewals. This means that if your property does not have a valid EPC rating of ‘E’ or above by this date, it cannot be legally rented out.
Ensuring compliance with these energy efficiency standards is essential for landlords, as failure to meet the requirements can result in legal consequences and the inability to legally let the property. It is advisable to obtain an updated EPC for your rental property to meet the minimum rating requirements.
What are the new EPC regulations for landlords?
Following a consultation in December 2020, the government has announced significant changes to the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) for rental properties in England and Wales.
The new proposal states that all rental properties will be required to have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of ‘C’ or above by 2028. Initially, the plan was to introduce these regulations for new tenancies from 2025, followed by all tenancies from 2028. However, in March 2023, it was decided that the deadline for all rental properties would be 2028.
The purpose of these regulatory changes is to enhance the energy efficiency of homes and reduce carbon emissions, aligning with the government’s target of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
Moreover, there will be an increase in the penalty for not having a valid EPC from £5,000 to £30,000 starting from 2028. This increase aims to encourage compliance and ensure that landlords prioritise energy efficiency in their rental properties.
It is important for landlords to be aware of these forthcoming changes and take the necessary steps to improve the energy efficiency of their rental properties to meet the new requirements by 2028. Failure to comply with the regulations could result in substantial penalties.
